The number one fear of storage unit customers is that their prized belongings will be taken over by pests. This fear, though warranted in some areas, is preventable if you take a few crucial steps.

First Things First: Facility Measures

The first thing you want to do is know the policy of your self storage facility. Many facilities have pest control come out on a regular basis to spray the premises. Not only is this preventative measure effective at repelling pests from outside the premises entering into storage units, but regular pest control preventative measures also reduces the chances that if any given unit has a pest problem it will spread to neighboring units.

Secondly, look around the self storage facility to determine if the staff keeps the grounds in good shape. Is there trash everywhere, or are trash cans and dumpsters closed and well kept? A trash problem on facility grounds could be a huge source of attraction for pests.

You Can Prevent Pests

Mold and mildew build up in your storage unit is bad news. If you use boxes, you’ll want to elevate them off the ground. Most storage unit floors are slabs of concrete, and, of course, with no crawl space or basement, the floor temperature will parallel the fluctuating temperatures of the ground. This can cause condensation to build up on the floor and when boxes are added to the mix you might create a stew of wet paper, mold, and a crowd-pleasing environment for pests. Storing boxes on crates is ideal for pest prevention.

You will also want to use furniture wraps for major items and store clothing in containers. Any upholstery item is particularly susceptible to changes in temperature and pest infestation. Plastic containers for smaller items are perfect protection from outside pests. The key is to create separation between your items and the self storage unit floor.

And, lastly, if you are really paranoid about pests, there are multiple pest prevention products sold at general stores. But if the self storage location is relatively clean and has pest control regular visit for preventative measures, you should have nothing to worry about.